Actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu made a bold statement for sustainable fashion as she graced the Elle Sustainability Awards on April 25. What caught everyone's attention was her stunning beaded bodice gown, which held a special significance—it was her repurposed wedding gown from 2017. Designer Kresha Bajaj unveiled the gown's transformation through a captivating video, showcasing the meticulous process behind the outfit's makeover.
Designer Kresha Bajaj shared insights into the collaboration with Samantha Ruth Prabhu, highlighting the significance of repurposing the wedding gown into a new creation for the awards night. The collaboration was about creating new memories and stories through sustainable fashion. In an Instagram post, Kresha expressed, "There are always new memories to be made. There are always new paths to walk. We loved working with Samantha, our muse, to help her create a new memory and tell another story."
Repurposing Samantha's Wedding Gown
The internet buzzed with excitement upon recognising Samantha's gown from her wedding to actor Naga Chaitanya in 2017. The gown, originally designed by Kresha Bajaj, underwent a remarkable transformation. Kresha shared a reel on Instagram showcasing the intricate hand-sewing of floral and crystal detailing onto the gown, which was dyed black and altered in silhouette for the awards night. The process was a testament to the creative approach towards sustainable fashion.
Samantha's Message on Sustainability
Samantha, who received a sustainability award at the event, used the platform to advocate for conscious fashion choices. In her monochrome pictures wearing the repurposed gown, she emphasised the urgency of embracing sustainability for the planet's longevity. She stated, "We cannot ignore sustainability anymore. We’re past that stage when it was a choice. It’s now a necessity for the longevity of our planet, which we call home."
Repurposing her wedding gown symbolised a meaningful step towards sustainable living for Prabhu. She acknowledged the significance of small gestures in creating a more sustainable lifestyle. Samantha shared, "While that might sound insignificant... entitled even... to many... I assure you that repurposing my old clothes is only one of many steps I am consciously taking to alter my habits and make my lifestyle more sustainable."
Encouraging conscious efforts
Samantha's advocacy for sustainability extends beyond her wardrobe choices. She urged herself and her supporters to prioritise making conscious efforts towards sustainability. She emphasised the cumulative impact of small actions, highlighting the importance of individual contributions towards a sustainable future.
Many observers interpreted Samantha's repurposed wedding gown as a symbol of empowerment and transformation, likening it to the trend of repurposing wedding rings into "divorce rings" or "revenge rings." One individual expressed, "She transformed her fairytale wedding gown into a revenge dress! I'd do the same if my spouse betrayed me! That's empowering!"
In recent times, numerous individuals in the industry have opted to repurpose their cherished outfits for significant occasions, such as wedding sarees or their late mother's gowns. Special occasion attire often carries profound sentimental value, including cherished memories and emotions. Choosing to rewear and revamp these dresses represents a powerful and symbolic step towards embracing life, moving forward, and honouring the enduring significance of these special garments.
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